What is Hospitality Marketing?
Hospitality marketing is marketing efforts directed towards the increase of revenue in the hospitality industry. Learn about education and careers in the hospitality marketing industry.
Hospitality Marketing Defined
Marketing is the process for getting a company's product or service out to consumers. Hospitality marketing takes a look at how segments of the hospitality industry, such as hotels, restaurants, resorts and amusement parks, utilize marketing techniques to promote their products or services.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutHospitalityMarketers">Important Facts About Hospitality Marketers</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td><b>Median Salary* (2021)</b></td><td> $133,380 (for all marketing managers)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook* (2021-2031)</b></td><td> 10% (for all marketing managers)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Key Skills</b></td><td> Critical thinking, project management and analytical skills</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>On-the-Job Training</b></td><td> None</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---Education">Education</h3><p>You can prepare for a career in hospitality marketing by completing a certificate program in hospitality marketing and sales. Most colleges and universities offer marketing programs that focus on hospitality marketing and sales as well. Hospitality marketing programs aim to familiarize students with the various stages of marketing campaigns and how those can be tailored to the hospitality industry. Students will also gain an understanding of topics such as analysis of the latest trends affecting the industry and the most effective ways to attract clients for hospitality events. Courses may focus on sales, marketing, management and consumer behavior. Some programs offer marketing courses for specific hospitality industries, such as casinos or resorts.
</p><h3 id="section---CareerInformation">Career Information</h3><p>Hospitality marketing professionals can find employment in a variety of businesses within the hospitality and recreational industries. Most certificate or degree programs will prepare students for entry-level positions in restaurants, resorts and other related organizations. Career settings include tourist venues, colleges and lodging facilities.
</p><h3 id="section---ProfessionalCertification">Professional Certification</h3><p>In addition to undergoing education and training, you can also choose to earn voluntary certification to bolster your resume. The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) offers the Certified Hospitality Marketing Executive (CHME) credential. To earn the CHME, you must meet the pre-examination requirements that take a look at your professional experience and membership involvement in related organizations. Once these requirements have been met, you need to pass an examination and submit a research paper on a course administrator-approved topic. Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration also offers a Certification in Hospitality Marketing that can be earned by completing on-campus or online courses. It takes approximately 104 hours to complete this program.</p>